Fe Allado Bernabe

Fe Bernabe, 91, passed away peacefully on January 27th, 2026, in Naperville, Illinois. A devoted mother, grandmother, and woman of deep faith and resilience, she leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and unwavering optimism.

Born on March 9, 1934, in Laoag, Philippines, Fe pursued her passion for animals and science by earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of the Philippines. She began her professional journey as a large animal veterinarian in the Philippines-a role that reflected both her intellect and compassion.

After immigrating to the United States, Fe transitioned into new professional roles with characteristic determination and grace. She worked as a Biologist at Nalco before continuing her career with the Illinois State Scholarship Commission. Ever industrious and committed to providing for her family, she also held second jobs at Bankers Life and Casualty, Service Merchandise, Walgreens, and Lord & Taylor. After retirement, she worked for her church, St. Joseph the Worker. Her tireless work ethic was matched only by her generosity and devotion to those she loved.

Fe was a devout Catholic whose faith guided every aspect of her life. She was a member of Couples for Christ and remained spiritually connected through regular participation in her Rosary Facetime Group. Over the years, she worshipped at several parishes including St. Norbert's in Northbrook, St. Joseph the Worker in Wheeling, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Crystal Lake.

Family was at the heart of everything Fe did. She was a loving mother to Elaine Ruddy (Kevin), Eileen Hoelter (Dave), Erlene Dungan (Dan), Frederick Bernabe (Natalie), Floyd Bernabe, and Fenwick Bernabe. Her joy multiplied with each grandchild: Thomas Ruddy, Kieran Ruddy, Mars Ruddy, Erin Ruddy, Patrick Hoelter, Kayla Hoelter, Brian Dungan, Cassie Dungan, Emily Bernabe, and Nathan Bernabe. She loved chatting and taking vacations with her cousins Ophelia Rallos (Ed) and Rhoda Allado. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ernesto Bernabe, parents Victorino and Maxima Allado, siblings, Rodrigo, Luciano, Memo and Belinda Allado.

Fe's home was always filled with warmth-whether through shared meals, quiet moments spent crocheting intricate patterns, or working on Diamond Dot crafts. She found joy in puzzle books and reading, but most especially cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren. Her optimism never wavered; no matter what challenges life presented, she met them with strength and a smile.

She will be remembered as kind-hearted and compassionate-a woman who gave selflessly to others while maintaining an unshakable spirit. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched so deeply.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.